How to Create a Shelf in Nook

Preparatory Steps

• 1

  Measure the width of the nook. Measure the depth, if it's less than 12 inches deep.

• 2

  Cut one furring strip to match the width of the nook. Cut the other two strips to a length of 11 1/4 inches, or the depth of the nook minus 3/4 inch -- whichever is shorter.

• 3

  Rip the plank -- which means to saw along the length of the plank -- so that it's as wide as the nook is deep. Skip this step if the nook is 12 inches deep or deeper.

• 4

  Sand all faces of your cut lumber. If you want to paint, stain, or paper your shelves, this is the best time to do that.

Installation

• 5

  Use your stud finder to locate the studs in the back wall of your nook. Do this by placing the stud finder flat on the wall, and running it slowly along the surface. It will beep each time it passes over a stud. Mark the location of each stud using your pencil.

• 6

  Use your level to draw a line on the back wall at the height you want your shelf.

• 7

  Lay the furring strip you cut to match the width of the nook against the back wall. Line up the top edge with the line you drew. Fix it in place with one wood screw at each point the strip intersects a wall stud.

• 8

  Set the other furring strips on the side walls, abutting the installed strip along the back. Screw them in place where they intersect a wall stud.

• 9

  Lay the plank on top of the furring strips to complete the shelf.